January 18, 2009; Cheaha Mountain

I took a drive down to Mount Cheaha State Park today to eat a cheeseburger on top of Alabama’s highest point, Cheaha Mountain at 2,407 feet according to the information sign, and 2,405 feet according to the topo maps. I have been here several times, and always enjoy climbing up to the top of the rock observation tower to see what I can see. Today, the view was obscured by cloudy conditions, although it did dissipate soon after I left the top. I had a look at the USGS benchmarks here once again and noted the water tanks and communication towers on top. Completely surrounded by the Talladega National Forest, this is Alabama’s oldest continuously operating state park, first opening in 1933. Much of the development and construction was done by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), including the rock observation tower on the summit. No hike is necessary to reach this summit; you can drive right to the parking lot for the observation tower for the nominal fee of $1 at the park entrance.

Photos:

David showing off his cheeseburger inside the observation tower on the summit.

Another shot of the disappearing cheeseburger at the information sign.

The rock observation tower on the summit, taken from the walkway.

One of the many communication towers now adorning the summit.

Benchmarks:

The tower as pictured above, is PID DG3596. Thanks to Keymaker for the fine benchmark photos:

Cheehahaw 2, PID DG1675, monumented in 1941

Cheehahaw 2 Reference mark #2, PID DG1676, also monumented in 1941